When dealing with hazardous chemicals it is important to keep up with the latest legislation regarding their storage, use and disposal. Many Norfolk homes and businesses need to keep a supply of heating oil or similar fuel on site. But since such facilities can become old and worn out, it is important to keep on top of the maintenance of any system which uses petrochemical products.
Years ago pretty much all chemical storage tanks were made from steel, as this material was known to be strong and was also cheap to use. But without regular maintenance steel will rust, until the structure of the tank is compromised and the contents begin to leak away into the surrounding Norfolk countryside. The environment agency have been quick to spot the potential for severe ecological damage, and plastic fuel storage tanks are now recommended for many applications.
The simplest and cheapest type of plastic tank is one which is a direct replacement for steel tanks of the same dimensions. These units are made from rotationally moulded medium density polyethylene in the same way that Norfolk wheelie bins are manufactured. They are available in a vast range of sizes so you are sure to find one which will suit your purpose.
But these units are not suitable for all applications. There are certain situations where a bunded fuel tank must be used. Some of these situations are listed below:
* If the tank is to be situated within 10 metres of a stream, lake or open drain
* Most commercial, industrial and farming applications
* Anywhere a potential spill could run into a water course
* When the tank’s capacity exceeds 2500 litres
A bunded tank is one which has a double wall, thereby ensuring added protection against leakage whether the unit is at risk of being damaged from the inside or from the outside. The outer skin of a bunded tank must have a capacity of at least 110% of that of the inner tank. In this way, any leakage that occurs from the inner tank with a trapped by the outer tank and will not be released into the environment. Norfolk householders and business owners are quickly finding that the added security provided by bunded fuel storage tanks is well worth the investment.
There are many types of building which require independent off-grid heating arrangements. Many of these occur in the agricultural sector. Sometimes, oil burning heating systems are used in cow sheds and chicken coops to keep livestock warm in the winter. Or they may be used to maintain an ambient temperature in a barn or stables. A workshop or tool shed on a Norfolk farm is a great place to have a remote heating system as it means farm staff and mechanics can keep warm whilst repairing and maintaining the machinery. Industrial workshops and private residences can have remote heating systems too, and all these properties can benefit from plastic fuel storage tanks. Please see our website for more information.
